Getting Started on the Athlone to Mullingar Route
Everything you need to know before your first ride — from what to bring, to where to park, to what pace to expect. Séamus walks through the entire route section by section.
Read the guide
Séamus O'Connor
Senior Cycling & Accessibility Editor
Asbestosambulance Ltd
"Ireland's disused railway lines aren't just historical artifacts — they're gateways to accessible cycling and outdoor health for everyone. That's what drives my work."
Séamus O'Connor has spent the last 14 years documenting and advocating for accessible cycling infrastructure across Ireland's converted rail trails. He's not just an editor — he's a former transport planner, universal design specialist, and someone who regularly tests these routes himself with pensioner cycling groups.
His work focuses on one simple belief: older adults deserve safe, flat, beautifully maintained cycling routes. The Athlone to Mullingar greenway is a perfect example of what's possible when planning meets passion. Séamus has influenced design standards across three counties and consulted on over 12 major trail projects, always with accessibility at the center.
At asbestosambulance Ltd, he leads editorial content on greenway cycling, combining rigorous research with real-world testing. Every article he writes comes from experience — both his own and from the cyclists he interviews along these trails.
Professional Journey
From Transport Planning to Cycling Advocacy
2006
Degree in Environmental Planning
Graduated from University College Dublin with focus on sustainable transport and land use planning.
2010
Transport Planner at Westmeath County Council
Began career working on the Athlone to Mullingar railway conversion feasibility study. This project shaped his entire focus on converting disused rail infrastructure into accessible cycling routes.
2014
Universal Design Training & Age Friendly Ireland Partnership
Completed specialist certification in universal design principles and began consulting with Age Friendly Ireland to understand the specific cycling needs of pensioners and older adults.
2016–2022
Greenway Design Consultant
Influenced cycling and walking infrastructure standards across Westmeath, Longford, and Athlone. Consulted on 12+ major trail projects, conducting user feedback sessions with pensioner cycling groups and testing routes firsthand.
2023–Present
Senior Cycling & Accessibility Editor, asbestosambulance Ltd
Leads editorial strategy for cycling accessibility content. Researches, writes, and reviews articles on greenway cycling, focusing on inclusive recreation for older adults. Combines rigorous research with hands-on testing and community feedback.
Areas of Specialization
What Séamus Knows Best
14 years of dedicated experience in accessible cycling infrastructure and greenway development.
Disused Rail Trail Conversion
Converting historic railway lines into safe, accessible cycling and walking routes. Deep knowledge of the Athlone to Mullingar greenway project and similar trails across Ireland's Midlands.
Universal Design & Accessibility
Designing cycling infrastructure that works for everyone — particularly older adults and people with mobility considerations. Certified in universal design principles.
Pensioner Cycling Programs
Understanding the specific needs, preferences, and safety concerns of older cyclists. Conducts regular user feedback sessions and testing with pensioner cycling groups throughout the region.
Trail Infrastructure Planning
Feasibility studies, design standards, and implementation strategy for cycling greenways. Influenced infrastructure guidelines across three counties and 12+ major trail projects.
Active Aging & Health
The health benefits of accessible recreational cycling for older adults. Combines evidence-based research with real-world experience from community partnerships and direct testing.
Practical Cycling Knowledge
Real hands-on experience cycling these routes regularly. Understands bike maintenance, gear selection for flat routes, safety practices, and route-specific advice for different fitness levels.
Education & Credentials
BA Environmental Planning
University College Dublin, 2006
Universal Design Certification
Specialist training, 2014. Accredited by International Association of Accessibility Professionals
Age Friendly Ireland Partner
Active partnership since 2014, consulting on cycling accessibility for older adults
Key Projects
Athlone to Mullingar Greenway
Feasibility studies and design consultation (2010–2015). Now a thriving flat-route cycling destination for pensioners and families.
County Infrastructure Standards
Influenced design guidelines across Westmeath, Longford, and Athlone for accessible cycling routes
12+ Major Trail Consulting Projects
From planning to implementation. Regular user testing and feedback sessions with pensioner cycling groups.
Featured Content
Articles & Guides by Séamus
Practical advice from someone who knows these routes inside and out.
Essential Bike Maintenance for Trail Cycling
Keep your bike in top condition for greenway riding. Séamus covers the basics — tire pressure, chain care, brake checks — with tips specific to flat trail cycling.
Read the guideWhere to Stop and Rest on Your Ride
A detailed guide to cafés, benches, water stations, and rest areas along the trail. Perfect for planning longer rides or taking it slow with friends.
Read the guideSafety Tips for Cycling the Greenway
How to stay safe while cycling — weather awareness, visibility, managing mixed-use trails, and what to do in an emergency. Real-world advice from someone who rides these routes regularly.
Read the guideHave a Question About Cycling the Greenway?
Séamus loves hearing from cyclists about their experiences on the trail. Whether you're planning your first ride, need maintenance advice, or want to share feedback about the route, he's here to help.